PRIMARY NEWS PRIMARY NEWS
ORTHSIDE CHRISTIAN COLLEGE WEEKLY PRIMARY NEWSLETTER
Dear Parents and Carers,
Recently, I have received some questions about pick-up arrangements at the end of a school day, particularly when the arrangements are different from what usually happens I would ask that if pick-up arrangements are changing for your child, that you notify the College (a SEQTA message to your child's teacher is a good way of communicating these kinds of changes - especially one-off changes).
Please be mindful if you are allowing your children to walk to and from school to home or other locations. Our supervision does not extend past the College gate pick up locations and car park crossings. We would generally advise that Primary school students walking to and from school are accompanied by an older student or ideally a parent or carer. This however, is a decision that rests on individual families to make I do suggest that you consider the risks involved if your children are making their own way to and from the College.
A number of our Primary school students represented the College in a CSEN (Christian Schools Events Network) Basketball competition earlier this week. The event also included students from our Secondary school. Our students have many opportunities to attend a range of sporting events throughout the year. We are proud of their efforts!
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This week, students in Year 3 and Year 5 completed several NAPLAN tests, which plays an important role in assessing their literacy and numeracy skills The test covered key areas such as reading, writing, language conventions, and numeracy, providing valuable insights into student progress and areas for improvement. Our dedicated teachers worked diligently to ensure students felt well-prepared and confident, while parents offered their support throughout the assessment period. We look forward to seeing students results when they become available later in the year
During our staff devotions last week we were reminded as a staff to speak life wherever possible. Words have an incredible ability to shape our thoughts, actions, and relationships. By choosing to speak words of encouragement, positivity, and kindness, we can uplift those around us Whether it’s offering a compliment, providing words of comfort, or expressing gratitude, speaking life helps foster a culture of respect and care. This is the kind of community we are seeking to build here at Northside Christian College. Let’s continue to be mindful of how our words impact others, and strive to speak life in all our interactions this week and beyond.
The opposite is also true. It's important to be aware of the impact that negative words can have on others. Speaking words of criticism, discouragement, or harsh judgment can create tension, hurt feelings, and even damage relationships. When we speak negatively, we not only affect the person we are addressing, but we also contribute to a less positive and supportive environment. It’s essential to remember that our words can either build up or tear down, and choosing to speak in a way that is thoughtful and respectful is key to maintaining a caring community My prayer is that we would be mindful of the language we use and aim to foster kindness and understanding, even in difficult moments.
Praying for God's blessing and protection to be upon you and your family.
Chris Drowley Director of Primary School Learning
PRIMARY SCHOOL CHAPEL
Friday 14th March, 2:15pm – 2:50pm
Parents are invited to join our Chapel session in Room 412, accessible through the foyer in the Upper Primary Neighbourhood Please sign in at Reception before attending
Enjoy an item presented by Year 1SL
Photos and videos of the students are not permitted during Chapel to protect the privacy of other students who may appear in the frame.
Please note that parents and pre-schoolers cannot access the Students ONLY toilets during Chapel. Staff and Visitor toilets are located in the Administration Building (near Reception) or on Level 1 in the Middle School Building.
VICTORIAN PREMIERS’ READING CHALLENGE
Thanks to all families who have returned their permission forms for the Premiers' Reading Challenge Details on logging in to the challenge have been sent to families via SEQTA Students can now begin logging books that they read during the challenge dates. We will accept late permission forms if you would still like your child to participate in the challenge.
If you require another permission form, please email:
Mrs Kylie Drowley: kdrowley@ncc.vic.edu.au or
Ms Rachel Skerry: rskerry@ncc.vic.edu.au
2024 YEARBOOKS
We understand that some families received faulty 2024 Yearbooks, where pages were falling out from the spine If you received a faulty Yearbook, we deeply apologise. The College has now received replacement Yearbooks from the supplier, and these are available for collection from the College Reception. Each student enrolled in 2024 is eligible to receive their own copy of the 2024 Yearbook.
LAPTOP DEVICES FOR YEAR 7 STUDENTS IN 2026
Students in Year 7 next year will need a College-approved device. The new Secondary School ICT Device Program means that parents no longer need to source their own device. We will provide you with further information about this initiative shortly.
WEEK 8B
Monday 17th - Friday 21st March
Monday 17th March
NAPLAN
Tuesday 18th March
NAPLAN
Wednesday 19th March
NAPLAN
Thursday 20th March
NAPLAN
Ride2School Day
Wristband Sales Day for Epilepsy Awareness Day
Friday 21st March
NAPLAN
Harmony Day
CSEN Primary School Swimming Championships (Please disregard paper calendar which says 20th March)
Primary School Chapel – Year 1SL presenting
P C O M I N G E V E N T S : T E R M 1
WEEK
9A Monday 24th - Friday 28th March
Monday 24th March
Whole School Assembly via Zoom
Last day of NAPLAN (Please disregard paper calendar which says 25th March)
Tuesday 25th March
Epilepsy Awareness Day
Friday 28th March
Primary School Chapel – Jared presenting
WEEK 10B
Monday 31st March - Friday 4th April
Monday 31st March
Term 1 Mini Music Recital – Select students
Tuesday 1st April
Student Free Day: Prep – Year 12 Parent Student Teacher Conference (PSTC)
Thursday 3rd April
Last day of Term 1
TERM 1 HOLIDAYS
Friday 4th April - Monday 21st April
WEEK 1A Monday 21st - Friday 25th April
Monday 21st April
Student Free Day – Easter Monday
Tuesday 22nd April
First day of Term 2, 8:40am
Thursday 24th April
Student Free Day
Friday 25th April
Student Free Day – ANZAC Day
Neighbourly Awards
nts usin
Noah, Prep
ough Drop-Off and Pick-Up Zones will need to remain in their cars for pick up and drop o will be escorted to the car by staff at the end of the day.
Jerusha, Prep
For paying attention, sitting up straight and listening well during instruction time. You are a great example Noah!
For your hard work and perseverance with beginning and end sounds.
ents using the Drive-Through Drop-Off and Pick-Up Zones will need to remain in their c and drop o Students will be escorted to the car by staff at the end of the da
Clara, Prep
using p-Off and Pick-Up Zones will need to remain in their cars for pick up and drop off. S escorted to the car by staff at the end of the day.
Asher, Year 1
For always looking out for others and helping your table group tidy up after rotations. You are a great example to your classmates, Clara!
ents using the Drive-Through Drop-Off and Pick-Up Zones will need to remain in their nd drop Students will be escorted to the car by staff at the end of the d
For showing integrity through choosing to make positive changes to his play.
nts usin
Hayley, Year 1
For consistently making great choices to support your learning in Literacy Rotations and Writing lessons. Keep up the great work!
ough Drop-Off and Pick-Up Zones will need to remain in their cars for pick up and drop o will be escorted to the car by staff at the end of the day
John, Year 2
For demonstrating the school value of Service through his dedication to his role as Laptop Monitor. He consistently goes above and beyond by ensuring all devices are properly stored, charged, and ready for use. His willingness to assist both teachers and classmates without hesitation shows his commitment to helping others and maintaining a positive learning environment.
ents using the Drive-Through Drop-Off and Pick-Up Zones will need to remain in drop o Students will be escorted to the car by staff at the end of
usi
Chloe, Year 2
For showing kindness and care to those around you, Chloe You are always ready to comfort and support others when they need it, showing a thoughtful and compassionate heart. Keep believing in yourself as you continue to grow in confidence!
rop-Off and Pick-Up Zones will need to remain in their cars for pick up and drop off S escorted to the car by staff at the end of the day.
Grace, Year 3
Congratulations, Grace! This week, you have demonstrated true humility in the way you treat others with kindness and respect. You always listen carefully, value everyone’s contributions, and never seek praise for yourself. Your willingness to help others and celebrate their successes shows a beautiful, selfless heart. You lead by example, showing that true strength comes from lifting others up. Keep shining with your humble and generous spirit!
Well done, Grace!
using the Drive-Through Drop-Off and Pick-Up Zones will need to remain in their ca off. St will be escorted to the car by staff at the end of the day.
Chris, Year 3
For always showing integrity in your learning, Chris. You consistently try your best, complete your work with care, and take responsibility for your learning by reaching out for help when needed Keep up the great effort!
rents hrough Drop-Off and Pick-Up Zones will need to remain in their cars for pick up and drop will be escorted to the car by staff at the end of the day.
Daniel, Year 4
For demonstrating your best effort during our Inquiry lessons this week. You showed a solid understanding of forces and how they related to our balloonpowered cars. Keep up the great work!
arents using the Drive-Through Drop-Off and Pick-Up Zones will need to remain in their nd drop Students will be escorted to the car by staff at the end of the d
Jordan, Year 4
sing t h Drop-Off and Pick-Up Zones will need to remain in their cars for pick up and drop off Stu escorted to the car by staff at the end of the day.
Ryder, Year 5
Your enthusiasm and dedication to your learning and written work have been impressive this week! You never gave up, even when things were tough Keep pushing yourself to achieve great things!
For being a quiet achiever in all you do. You show up for your learning and are graceful in your demeanour. Ryder I encourage you to continue to humble yourself before our Lord. Keep smiling, keep working hard. Well done!
arents using the Drive-Through Drop-Off and Pick-Up Zones will need to remain in th drop Students will be escorted to the car by staff at the end of the
using
Yann, Year 5
For demonstrating a high standard of integrity at school. You believe in doing the right thing, even if you stand alone.
Drop-Off and Pick-Up Zones will need to remain in their cars for pick up and drop off. S will be escorted to the car by staff at the end of the day
God sees your beautiful heart, Yann!
Obioma, Year 6
Thank you for sharing how God speaks to you with the class. Your words have encouraged and inspired both your peers and your teacher as you share your relationship with the Lord. Well done, we love seeing the gold in you shine.
Parents using the Drive-Through Drop-Off and Pick-Up Zones will need to remain in t d dro Students will be escorted to the car by staff at the end of th
Reuben, Year 6
sing th
The way you are honest and hardworking is inspiring. Your commitment to the home reading program is particularly brilliant.
rop-Off and Pick-Up Zones will need to remain in their cars for pick up and drop off. Stu escorted to the car by staff at the end of the day
Thank you for inspiring others to be integrous, Reuben
A great verse for you is Proverbs 10:9
The Wellbeing Barometer survey is an invaluable tool for schools, providing critical insights into the mental health and wellbeing of young people. This annual survey identifies areas of concern, highlights resilience and adaptability in students, and emphasises the importance of preventative strategies to promote positive outcomes.
Participation in this survey is strongly encouraged, as it offers a comprehensive view of students' experiences, challenges, and achievements. By capturing a detailed understanding of young people's experiences, the survey supports a tailored approach to enhancing their mental, emotional, and social wellbeing. It helps to identify strengths and areas for improvement, as well as pinpoint opportunities for early intervention.
The survey is part of an ongoing longitudinal study, and we encourage you to take a few moments to complete the survey for each of your children. Responses remain anonymous and should be based on your observations over the last 12 months By working together, we can reduce the long-term impact of mental illness and make a meaningful difference to the lives of our young people for a brighter future.
We hope you take time to reflect on the information offered in this Special Report, and as always, we welcome your feedback.
If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact the school for further information or seek medical or professional help
2025 Northside's RIDE2SChool
Walk, Ride, Skate or Scoot to school!
Thursday 20th March 2025
Everyone that rides to school receives house points and a piece of fresh fruit.
Activity track run by Student Leaders on the basketball courts from 8:15am - 8:30am
Harmony Day Everyone belongs
cultural dress can wear orange or their school uniform
Please note that apparel from sporting teams does not qualify as 'cultural dress' and is not considered an appropriate choice for Harmony Day
21st March 2025
25th March 2025
All students are invited to purchase a purple wristband for $1 from Thursday 20th March, to Tuesday 25th March.
Wristbands will be available for purchase at both gates before and after school.
All students are encouraged to wear their wristbands on Tuesday 25th March, to show support.
All profits will go to Epilepsy Action Australia to help raise awareness for epilepsy.
1 150 in
people have epilepsy. That’s 65 MILLION people worldwide making epilepsy more common than Parkinson’s, Cerebral Palsy and MS combined
People with epilepsy often face more physical injuries, like fractures and bruises from seizures, and have higher rates of anxiety and depression.
Epilepsy is a disorder of the brain characterized by repeated seizures
250,000 people in Australia are currently living with epilepsy.
Login Instructions
Step one: Step two:
Visit the following website https://vprc.eduweb.vic.gov.au Click on the ‘Sign In’button under ‘School coordinator or student’
Step three: On the ‘Student login’page, click on ‘VPRC login’.
Step four:
Enter the username and passcode the Classroom teacher provided, then click ‘Login’.
You will then be directed to your child’s challenge dashboard where you can view how many books have been read and recorded so far
To enter a book, click the ‘Search Books’tab and enter the book title into the search bar Sometimes you may also have to add the author’s name Once you see the book, select it and click ‘add to my books’ Books that have been read will later be verified by a member of staff.
If you or your child are having issues logging in, it is recommended that you try a different internet browser. If you are still having problems, please contact the Library Team via SEQTA.
Your OSHC by Camp Australia provides enriching experiences for children during term – before school, after school and on pupil free days At Your OSHC we give children a supportive space to continue their development, build confidence and socialise with their friends.
for Your OSHC
Once registered, you'll be able to easily make and manage your bookings online via our Parent Portal.
Please feel free to visit the program with your children to meet the team and see what happens in our great program each school day
New articles are added each week for parents and cover various topics to help families.
